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The Daily Tar Heel

Gist, Herrera, McDuffee Win in Carrboro

Herrera's victory marks the first time a first-generation Latino immigrant has held a position in municipal government in North Carolina.

"We need to have a new voice in Carrboro," Herrera said. "We're making history."

But Spalt, who tracked the election returns on his laptop computer while munching on hors d'oeuvres at his campaign manager's house, questioned the results, saying the ballot returns were not yet official.

"The results are not yet clear," he said. "All the votes have yet to be counted."

Official results were not available as of 11 p.m. Tuesday.

All six candidates' platforms focused on three main issues -- affordable housing, environmental concerns and growth management.

But voters connected with the ideas of Gist, McDuffee and Herrera at the voting booth.

All three vowed to expand Carrboro's diversity by increasing available affordable housing, preserving existing green space and seeking citizen input in planning for future growth.

Gist said this election brought overlooked issues to the attention of the community.

"I think it's good for the town," Gist said. "This election will make the Board of Aldermen listen."

McDuffee said she was pleased to have competition in the race this year, because all three seats went unopposed in 1999.

"I think it's really good that we had a real race this time," McDuffee said.

Also running were political newcomer Stephanie Padilla and former Carrboro mayor Jim Porto.

"I just had dinner, watched TV, and now I'm ready to go to bed," Porto said. "I will be around to make sure we have a contested race in two years."

But Herrera said he is confident he will be able to fulfill his election promises, which include bringing a new voice -- especially one for local Latinos -- to the board.

"I'm here because the people believe in me," he said. "I ask everyone now to come forward and express your voice."

Staff Writers Heather Apple and Chris Blow contributed to this article.

The City Editor can be reached

at citydesk@unc.edu.

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